How to Solve All Your Problems...
— ever. (unless you want to use them to become enlightened!)

CAUTION: much reading ahead!

A

service being that of one-on-one counseling now available from Simply Superior, where anyone with a burning question, a stuck situation or just needing a new perspective can take advantage of 35+ years of actual, practical experience with dealing with creative matters... and a great deal of that which pertains to them.

This will be facilitated byAndrew M.Mckenzie, inventor of the concept of ‘Complemation’. (more)...

Complemation is a shortened form of the phrase "Complementary Education." As today, in that what was formerly termed "alternative medicine" is now called "complementary medicine", so it is with Complemation: not seeking to displace or remove any existing system, but work alongside the best of that which is presently available, and complement these possibilities from a wide range of disciplines, practices, philosophies, strategies and ways of living.(less)

— ★ —

WHY ..?

...would anyone want to do this anyway?

(flippant, clever answer:)

Because it's just about the only thing that makes sense!

(thoughtful, slightly pretentious answer:)

We hold that everyone, no matter what walk of life they tread, is involved with creative decisions and activities at some level or another. We would also hold that these things happen almost daily for many - if not most - people. With the plethora of information and suggestions which are available to almost everyone today, a vast amount of it is either redundant, second-hand, or merely words without any foundation. We see that many people are realising this after a sharp and somewhat unpleasant waking up to the terror of the situation - that knowledge without understanding is of no use in practical terms in today's world. Conversational Complementation Counseling allows the possibility for real, two-way communication and learning about the situation at hand with the backup of actual experience. Every creative act involves internal and external consideration; otherwise it is a flawed, unbalanced, and potentially disastrous state of affairs. By externalising and reflecting with the help of someone who has already experienced not only the same sort of dilemmas but has experienced the questions and their solutions "in the field," an enormous benefit and advantage in the situation is possible; saving time, resources, unnecessary suffering and opening up the real possibility of actually learning, which will expand capabilities for creative action in the future.

In a situation at the present time where even less is predictable than ever before, the development of an attitude which is prepared to deal with any arising eventuality as it is, is the only sensible strategy. This alone is not enough; one way to examine accurately whether or not you have learned something is to ask yourself, "in what way will my behaviour have changed as a result of that which I have learned?"

...are there so many words here? Can't you explain this simply?

('pikant' retort:)

Because you're not an idiot!

(chocolate response:)

We are reasonably certain - to the extent that we are writing this for public consumption — that in general, the intelligence of people is underestimated, and that the mature person recognises that sometimes things cannot always be boiled down to short, easily digestible one-syllable ideas to be written up in self-help bestsellers, which contain perhaps 2 pages of actually useful information. If that. A real situation is endlessly complex (but not necessarily complicated), having uncountable causes and unimaginable consequences. To deal with this reality in a practical, honest and enlightened fashion, the planning and accounting for any action or situation has to be measured by reference to what is here, now, and not what we would wish it to be, or have been told that it must be. At once frightening and at the same time a great (first) liberation, this service we are offering will assist you in putting into practice these insights and revelations into all aspects of your activities and being; after all, it is impossible, if everything is connected, to just change a little piece of the self.

So, we approach you in the expectation that you have the means to engage at a somewhat deeper level than just being told 'what to do' from a 'how-to' book, and that although some people are so terrified of making mistakes (and therefore cut off the possibility of actually learning) they will follow any and all leadership and forceful direction which presents itself. You do not have to be this person. We know this.

...would I ever come to you for advice?

(short and curlies:)

Because we've been there! Many, many times! We've made mistakes so you don't have to!

(long-winded and almost unreadable:)

We possess more things than we can possibly ever need. We have access to more information than we could possibly digest in several lifetimes. We are not more successful as a result of this with our creative efforts, endeavours or aspirations. We have not grounded that information or even knowledge into understanding, possibly one of the qualities most lacking in the present situation. The addition of experience is what produces just that very desireable understanding, and it is through dialogue, consultation and shared exploration that that which is abstract and internal becomes external and manifest. The invitation here is the opening to actual experience, and not just the promise of it; the actualisation and coming into being of the embodied goal. This is not, by any stretch of the imagination, a common offer.

—(hide)

...is all of this stuff?

(brief:)

An opportunity of several lifetimes!

(not brief at all:)

This opportunity is the cumulation of over 35 years of active investigation, experimentation, research, mistake making, practical creative actions, philosophical machinations, meetings with remarkable people, psycho- and hypnno- therapy work, study, sweat, tears, and many other things that go to make up a body of working experience of the creative act in all its aspects. These sessions are designed to pay back — in quality rather than in quantity — the blessings and wonderous good fortune that has come into my life from others both living and deceased, by sharing (in the real sense of the word), with individuals to effect changes of a lasting and beneficial nature.

...do I get out of this?

(facetious:)

As much as - and more than - you knew you wanted!

(deeply serious:)

While wishing to develop any faculty, the correct use of the imagination would seem to be that of seeing the goal completed; in this way, by working backwards (for example), the route to the desired situation or state can be seen much more clearly, impartially, and accurately than the conventional moving towards the vague and imperfectly defined. This does not mean for a second that anything is fixed. Rather, that the opportunity to attain something in the future is at hand in the present moment, and the trajectory is known — rather like the long distance runner seeing end in sight and the direct, physiological as well as psychological effect that has. By externalising internal processes and working with methods such as these, many things come into immediate operation, growing with further investment of the conscious application of attention: clarity, direction, purpose, flexibility, commitment, ability to take action, as well as the possibility of becoming a being that does things in contrast to the normal mode of existence — that of "doings that be things." more than just information or "a bunch of neat tricks," what will be gained is actual experience and a grounded, realised attitude that is far and away the most appropriate mode at the present time — and for life in general.

—(less)

WHAT ...?

HOW...?

...on earth do you propose to do this?

(simple:)

Real, actual talking! One of the things that humans can do very well... if they try!

(somewhat short:)

At a mutually agreed upon time and date, via Skype (or similar) software.

(somewhat long:)

Attention needs, we feel, to be drawn attention to the need for dialogue. We all know that things become more "alive" when they are brought into dialogue. This is beyond determining who knows or understands more about one thing or another, because there is at work a process in which real meaning can develop. In this way, we can see that the act of participating in such a dialogue is in actual fact a permission for the creative impulse to visit and become manifest; the dialogue is the midwife of that manifestation, and the people involved are the parents. They do not own the product, but are forever linked and changed by it. Dialogue is a delicate and vunerable thing, and the responsibility needs to be taken fully, gracefully and as expertly as possible. Conversational Complemation Counseling is a place where the conditions are allowed, encouraged, prepared for and nurtured, and create the space to permit the Creative Act to emerge as it will (and actually, must).

...can I get some of this?

(not long:)

Write to [the letter 'h' / the number '3' / the letter 'o' / the 'at' sign / simplysuperior.org] and tell us what you want. Yes, no web form. You are hereby credited with intelligence!

(kind of involved:)

follow the above "not long" instructions, and although not strictly necessary, a formulation of:

- the situation as it is now

- the series of events that led directly to it

- desired outcome(s)

would be of enomous benefit to the successful execution of the process, as would:

- some background on yourself

- your more general outlook and activities

- some indication of your interest in Simply Superior

—(less)

...the hell are you? Who's driving the bus?

Andrew M. Mckenzie's the name; "LEARNING IN ORDER TO SERVE" is the game.

It doesn't matter if you've never heard of him; but quite a few have. He's been around.

or what about a few snippets from the resumé of this person?:

Core of The Hafler Trio, international protagonists of mood engineering for over 30 years, co-founder of Simply Superior, psychotherapist, hypnotherapist, lecturer, teacher, seminar and workshop leader in Creative Thinking, inventor of Complemation, sound engineer, designer, writer, computer programmer, classical guitar teacher, and many other things.

He has given lectures, Seminars and workshops, as well as taught all of the above and more in Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, the U.S., Germany, Belgium, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, England, for The British Council, UNESCO, the English Language Teachers Latvia Symposium, the Latvian Composers' Union, Liepaja University, J. Vitols Latvian Academy of Music, the Tallinn Art Academy, The Helsinki Academy of Fine Arts, the Royal Conservatory of Music Århus, Denmark, the Art Academy of Vienna, Austria, Apiary, London, UK, Fylkingen, EMS, (both Sweden) Deichmanske Bibliotek Oslo, Norway, Trondheim Kunstmuseum, Norway, The Living Art Museum, Reykjavik, Iceland, and many other organisations, companies, institutions and individuals.

—(less)

WHO ...?

WHAT IF...?

...I have a burning question that isn't covered here?

Then you ask. Clearly and succinctly. Nothing is beyond the scope of these discussions, and in the preparatory phase, we wish you to feel confident that everything will be addressed — with the understanding that sometimes, subjects will be dealt with obliquely and unconventionally, and may sometimes seem to be the opposite of that which they really are. But that's about par for the course at Simply Superior. So ask!

...you don't solve my problem?

The main point of all of this work is to provide questions, feedback, the chance to be objective about things normally not so, and to shed light on situations where darkness normally prevails. The nature of 'problems' is something that can be addressed with the sessions; however, the real fact of the matter is that such items cannot be solved by CCC operations — seeds can be sown, and may only show up above ground a very long time in the future. The 'instant' will be applied where it is necessary and relevant, but a result-based attitude will almost certainly result in disappointment. What is on offer here is immediate in the sense that goals are a way of dealing with how we operate in the present moment and as such, are of immense value. Having said that, great care must be taken not to live in an imaginary future as a result of having set such goals or targets.

...appointments are missed by either side?

Then we'll make another appointment. It is inevitable that things will arise on both sides which prevent us from being in the right place at the right time. However, we reserve the right that if a session is booked, and it is not attended without at least one day prior warning three times, the full fee must be paid. If this is on our side, we will refund the entire cost of the session. Fair?

...the sessions are not enough, and more are needed?

The flexibility of our position is palpable! Just ask!

—(less)

...being imagined questions and their non-imaginary answers.

What would the duration of the session(s) be?

Normally, 1 hour or thereabouts...

The sessions are of course flexible, to a degree, and in theory, sessions can last as long as is necessary. However, all sessions' duration are to be mutually agreed upon in advance.

Would it be a multiple or one time session?

Either....

This is up to the person wishing for the sessions. an initial session can be reflected upon afterwards and more booked as a result of examination of what has transpired.

How many people can attend session(s), can it be multiple persons?

It can be more than one person...

A so-called "conference call," but greater effectiveness may well be obtained by solo sessions. It depends, for the most part, on the matter under discussion and the temperament of the person wishing to consult.

What time of the day is better for a session?

It depends...

This is also to be mutually arranged, including taking into account time differences between parties in their respective physical locations.

How can a payment for the session(s) be made?

Normally through PayPal...

...but other arrangements can be made. All payments are to be made ahead of appointed session times.

What is the procedure for requesting a session?

Write...

...to [the letter 'h', the number 3, and the letter 'o' plus the 'at' sign + simplysuperior.org], and initiate a dialogue. The chief requirement is a clear outline of that which is desired to be addressed, gained through written communication, so that the time together in session can be utilised to the greatest efficacy.

Can correspondents ask for specific help during the session, for example helping to deal with education issues?

Certainly...

This is one of the main features and intents of the process; to deal with matters on a practical as well as theoretical level.

What will the end product of these sessions be?

Clarification...

...of all points raised in the initial goal-setting of the email correspondence and discussion, and would be one of the primary "take aways" of any interaction, and these will be measured against the perceived outcome. If further sessions are indicated, then agreement would be made as to further courses of action.

Would recording of this session(s) be allowed?

Well, maybe...

The sessions are of course private and confidential. A recording of the session could be made, but it is debatable whether 'sharing' this with others could be of any benefit, and certainly a case could be made that it would be detrimental to all concerned. However, reflection and 'digestion' of the interactions are necessary, and if it is felt that a recording would be beneficial in that regard, then it should take place.

What languages can be used in session(s)?

If we can all speak the language, then any...

The primary language would be English, but other languages can be used given prior arrangement and agreement if they are within the capabilities of all parties.

I'm not a native speaker, so will I understand Mr. Mckenzie?

Pretty much for sure...

Andrew M. Mckenzie has lived most of his life in countries where English is not the mother tongue, and as a consequence of this speaks English much more clearly than most native speakers; this has been remarked upon many timesover the years. He still has a mild Northern English accent, however... have a look and listen to the videos elsewhere on this page and website.

Are the sessions directed toward a certain goal or can they be seen as a means in themselves (e.g. dialogues on scientific subjects and not therapy)?

Both, probably...

This is entirely up to the participants and that which was decided upon in advance as the goal(s) of the sessions.

What is Complemation?

"Complementary Education" - ah! a new buzzword...

Complemation is unfolding itself in the last few years through a synthesis of seminar, lecture, consultation, discussion, exploration and workshop on many interlinked subjects, forming a coherent and challenging approach to creativity, learning and life itself. The sessions which are here offered are a further expansion of the previous activities.

What techniques would be used through the session?

Any and all that are appropriate...

...based on over 37 years of practical experience as to which techniques work and those which do not.

Why do you wish to make these sessions available/possible?

It's about time...

After many years of dealing with learning situations where "life questions" arise even though they are not part of the official agenda, the one-to-one method has been found to be the most efficacious in correctly and honourably addressing these arising matters. While there is truly no substitute for face-to-face, we can do the best we can with the means available, and this method can assist many more people while preserving the essential elements of live dialogue necessary for such effects. This is based on experience over the last two years of testing out various methods of creating and maintaining dialogue via electronic means.

Any additional material prior to session that you would like potential participants to know?

Be prepared...

Although not a prerequisite, familiarity with Simply Superior's outlook might be useful. but in general, the most important thing to bring to any such consultation is a clear idea of what the questions are, as well as what the situation and circumstances around those questions consist of. "Burning Questions" are the ones that will provide the greatest leverage, and those are the ones most strongly encouraged. All this should be clarified through an email dialogue as mentioned previously.

What are these sessions NOT for?

Problems best dealt with by others...

For practical purposes, nothing is truly "off topic," but restrictions on the grounds of health and safety as far as that goes will be applicable — there are trained professionals to deal with mental problems, and these sessions are not, in any way, designed or intended to be a replacement for such help as would be available from such offices. While it is recognised that much of creative life deeply involves and connects with all sorts of mental, emotional, physical and spiritual issues which may be problematic, these can only be dealt with on the immediate level where the expertise is present, and will then indicate the seeking of more specific help in the cases where this is clearly appropriate.

Are the sessions video or audio?

Whatever you like...

The primary method would be a Skype conversation; however, some people experience access to greater bandwidth than others, and in such cases, audio-only would be the order of the day. Some people may also prefer such a communication situation.

Pricing plans?

Almost flexible...

An initial consultation for 10-15 minutes is free, in order to clarify purpose and future strategies. subsequent sessions are between €100-€150 per session. There is discount for block bookings, and the fee can be negotiated for those with low incomes, students and the like.

—(less)

FAQ...

—an entity becomes or realises itself

—the entity in realising itself aquires new properties that were not potential or even possible in the non-realised state

—the entity while retaining its identity is integrated into a structure as oart into a whole—

The question, then, again, becomes: how much do you actually wish to consciously Transform?

— ★ —

Should you have the desire to see and hear answers to these questions, then: